This weekend I set off on a solo road trip.
One of the kids I gathered up over the years passed away, and I went to her memorial.
Darci Whitttmayer was a well-loved woman who was only 56 years old. In fact, I met a lot of people who loved and appreciated Darci. Even the manager of the hotel where I stayed offered me a free beverage in the lounge because I had been at Darci’s service.
Her little sister, Brandi, spent much of her time in our home when she was growing up. She was my daughter Tiffany’s best friend and spent much of her time with us.
As sad as I was to be there for the reason of saying goodbye to Darci, being reunited with Brandi was a pleasure. Now, too, a grown woman, wife and mother, I couldn’t have been more proud of her.
The love she showed to me took me back to the days we had the girls around us.
You never know what impression you’ll make on a child. Kindness goes a long way. Mistreatment will be remembered forever as well.
On the drive to Bottineau, North Dakota, I passed the Trotters Church. Now empty and aging, the sight of the church swept me back.
My late husband, David, used to serve as a lay minister there.
I loved the times we traveled to the little country church. The congregation was welcoming and became like family.
The drive itself was wonderful as well. The beauty of the country and the occasional sighting of wildlife made it a special Sunday morning journey.
It never hurts to be reminded of God’s gifts, past and present.
Take your time. Take time to remember, take time to leave a good memory for a child. They will remember.
Keep doing good. Life will be good today.
I kept the column’s voice and structure intact while correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation and style under the MPG guide.